ICC World Cup: Bowlers must shine for India to retain trophy ,says Srinath

Former speedster banks on Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Ishant Sharma and Mohd Shami to retain the World Cup

Hyderabad: It was imperative for the Indian bowlers to perform well if India has to retain the cricket World Cup title, former paceman Javagal Srinath said yesterday.

Javagal Srinath

"I am sure they will put their might behind even this time. They have the team. It's all about getting their act together. If the bowlers do well I am sure the batsmen will definitely perform. It's a batsmen game by the end of the day.

"If the bowlers do well I am sure this trophy can be retained by India," Srinath said here yesterday.

'Bowlers win matches'"Bowling will be very crucial. We need three fast bowlers to do really well. Bowlers win matches on many occasions. I hope Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Ishant Sharma, Mohammed Shami and Stuart Binny put their might behind and do well for the team," said Srinath, who is currently an ICC match referee.

Bhuvneshwar Kumar celebrates the wicket of Glenn Maxwell during the tri-series opener against Australia in Melbourne recently. Pic/Getty Images

Asked if the Indian bowling attack is strong enough, Srinath said, "We are strong there is no doubt about it.

There is a decent amount of experience and they have spent enough time in Australia. I think they have understood the conditions better now and they know what to do and I am sure they will do well," Srinath added.

Srinath also said that not much should be read into India's recent dismal show Down Under but the players need to peak at the right time for good show in the mega event.

Ishant Sharma and Mohammed Shami

Need fans' supportSrinath also made a passionate appeal to the fans to back the Indian team to the hilt even when the players would be struggling.

"I think fans need guidance. We all get little emotional when we watch a match. We use languages when you watch the match at times. I have seen people do it," Srinath said.